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Straight from the horse's mouth: Equitation Science

Equitation Science "is going to change the way we train and manage horses forever".

Horses worldwide will benefit significantly after the recent release of Equitation Science, a book which will ultimately improve the welfare of horses in their associations with humans.

Written by international experts Dr Paul McGreevy from the Faculty of Veterinary Science and Dr Andrew McLean, Equitation Science offers an exciting new approach to owning and training a horse, providing a clear understanding of how horses interact with humans on the ground and in the saddle. The book unifies traditional horse training practices by analysing what does and does not work and why.

Dr McGreevy explains, "The goal of Equitation Science is to enhance our understanding of how horses think and learn, and to use their natural behaviour to train, ride or compete with them in as fair a manner as possible."

Drawing on traditional and emergent techniques, this book incorporates learning theory into an ethical equine training system suitable for all levels. It also focuses on evidence-based approaches that improve rider safety.

International Grand Prix Rider Wayne Channon said, "Equitation Science is one of those rare books that is going to change the way we train and manage horses forever. It brings together a fundamental understanding of the way horses think and behave and presents a system of modern training that has the welfare of the horse at its core."

Important facts regarding horses that are worth recognising:

horses kill more humans in developed countries than any other animal

there are over one million horses in Australia

confusion is the main reason horses behave inappropriately

behaving inappropriately is the main reason horses are euthanased

pressure signals are used to train horses

horses are subject to more physical abuse than any other domestic animal